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Consumer Reports New Cars September 1st, 2020 Digital Back Issue Cover

Consumer Reports New Cars Magazine (Digital)

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December 2024

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54 Articles

The CR Difference

WHEN YOU’RE BUYING a new car, it can feel like everyone you encounter just wants to sell you something and there’s nobody out there you can trust. CR is here to help! You can rely on our recommendations because we have information no one else has. This issue of Consumer Reports New Cars has the latest data from our exclusive owner satisfaction survey of CR members, where we found out how much they love—or dislike—their current vehicles. It also includes responses from our reliability surveys. Because the only thing better than a satisfying car is one that doesn’t need repeated repairs. This year we gathered data on over 330,000€cars, trucks, SUVs, minivans, and wagons. But that’s not all. We buy our own vehicles to test rather than rely on samples…

The CR Difference

Ask Our Experts

Q. Do cars come equipped with lights that shine on one side of a vehicle when turning? To aid visibility in turns, some cars come with lights at the corners that illuminate during low-speed turns. Often referred to as “cornering lights” or “side illumination lights,” these activate as you enter a turn, such as when making a 90-degree left- or right-hand turn in a dark subdivision. However, they don’t work at higher speeds, mostly because drivers aren’t making such sharp turns on the highway. The newer technology is called adaptive headlights, which swivel while you steer. There is also a still-newer lighting technology, called adaptive driving beam, where you are essentially driving with high beams illuminated all of the time, but glare is blocked to oncoming and followed traffic. Audi…

Ask Our Experts

Should You Lease Your Next Car?

Shopping for a new car means deciding between buying and leasing, which is often a tough call. On the one hand, buying usually involves higher monthly payments, but in the long run you’ll pay less and you’ll own an asset—your vehicle. On the other hand, a lease typically has lower monthly payments and lets you drive a vehicle that may be more expensive than you could afford to buy, but you could get into a cycle in which you never stop paying for a vehicle. It might seem as though there’s no such thing as a good deal on a new car anymore. With high prices and interest rates, both leasing and financing cost more than ever. The average monthly lease payment at the end of 2023 was $606 and…

Should You Lease Your Next Car?

WHY IT’S SMART TO LEASE AN EV

ACCORDING TO THE data analytics company Experian, 30.7 percent of EV drivers chose a lease in 2023, up from just 9.8 percent in 2022. It’s easy to see why. Lessees can qualify for a federal tax credit of up to $7,500 without meeting restrictive requirements on where an EV or PHEV was made, how much it cost, or the lessee’s income—all of which apply to purchases. Some automakers also discount leases on EVs and PHEVs to help sell vehicles that meet emissions rules. Leasing an EV makes sense for other reasons, too, says Jake Fisher, CR’s senior director of auto testing. “Prices and rebates on EVs have been fluctuating quite widely, making resale values impossible to predict,” he says. For example, both Ford and Tesla have recently cut the prices…

WHY IT’S SMART TO LEASE AN EV

SURPRISE! THESE CARS MAY BE BETTER TO LEASE.

IF YOU HAVE your heart set on a fun-to-drive vehicle even though it scores below average in CR’s reliability ratings, leasing may be the way to go, says Steven Elek, program leader for automotive data analytics at CR. “While it still may be a hassle to bring an unreliable vehicle to the dealer for repairs, at least it’s under warranty while you’re driving it,” he says. “Then it’s somebody else’s headache when you turn it in at the end of a lease.” The vehicles below have high road-test and owner satisfaction scores but lower-than-average reliability. It would be better to lease one rather than buy—but only if you can find a good deal that also makes financial sense. ALFA ROMEO TONALE OVERALL SCORE Super-Stylish This quick Italian plug-in hybrid is…

SURPRISE! THESE CARS MAY BE BETTER TO LEASE.

JUMP-START YOUR TEST DRIVE

To accurately compare one car with another, you should test-drive all of your candidate vehicles on the same day, preferably on the same or similar roads. It's why we put all the cars we test through the same evaluations. If you can’t do all of the driving in a day, take down notes on your cell phone when you finish each drive so that you can review your findings at a later date. Before your test drive, be sure to check these items off your to-do list. GRADE YOUR OWN CAR Make a list of the things you like and dislike about it, including performance, comfort, features, fuel economy, controls, and any idiosyncrasies. Jotting down all of your gripes—large and small—will help make sure that you don't overlook those things…

The Best Tires at a Great Price

It’s hard to overstate how important tires are to safe driving. After all, the contact patch, which is what the part of the tire that touches the road is called, is about the size of an adult’s hand. That’s all that is connecting the car to the surface you are driving on. That’s why so many consumers in colder climates take the time, make the effort, and spend the money to switch to winter/snow tires to ensure that their vehicles have the best grip possible. With the inconvenience of swapping tires in mind, some manufacturers have introduced all-weather models designed to perform well in winter conditions and year-round. Some cost more than the average price of the all-season tires they typically replace, but buyers come out ahead by avoiding the cost…

The Best Tires at a Great Price

The Tire Type on Your Car

1. ALL-SEASON A general-purpose tire and the most common type for cars and SUVs. PROS Good all-around performance, low cost, and long tread life. CONS They may lack the traction of more specialized tire types. 2. ULTRA-HIGH-PERFORMANCE ALL-SEASON Convenient for year-round use on sporty cars and SUVs. PROS Excellent braking and handling. CONS Pricey, limited treadwear, and compromised winter grip. 3. ALL-TERRAIN Built for on- and off-pavement adventures. PROS Designed to look and be tough; good at clawing through dirt, rocks, and snow. CONS Can be noisy. 4. WINTER/SNOW These provide optimum grip in winter weather. PROS Great traction on ice and snow. CONS Need to change seasonally, rapid wear, and relatively long wet and dry braking distances.…

The Tire Type on Your Car

Make Them Last Longer

Longer-lasting tires make safety checks more critical than ever. Many tires can last 50,000 miles or more before they wear out, although heat, potholes, and underinflation can weaken them. Here’s how to maximize the mileage you get out of a set of new tires. ■ Check the air pressure each month when the tires are cold. If they need air, inflate them to the air pressure listed on the placard on the doorjamb or in the owner’s manual. Don’t use the pressure indicated on the sidewall; that’s the maximum amount the tire can hold. ■ Look for cracks, cuts, or bulges in the sidewall or tread. If found, replace those tires as soon as possible. ■ Check for uneven treadwear, which typically denotes poor wheel alignment, over- or underinflation, and/or…

THE REDESIGNED FORESTER continues with its core virtues of great outward visibility, a comfortable ride, and a roomy cabin. But the biggest change may be the increased use of sound-deadening material to give the SUV a quieter cabin. The base trim starts at $29,659, going all the way up to $39,995 for the Touring we rented from the automaker. A hybrid version is expected to arrive in 2025. Here we take a first look at the Forester while we wait for it to go on sale. What We Like That hushed cabin is possibly the most impactful change. In particular, Subaru managed to tone down the din from the hard-working engine. The sounds emanating from under the hood are more subdued than in the past, which helps boost the feeling…

SANTA FE HYBRID

AFTER ITS DRAMATIC and angular redesign, the Santa Fe continues to fit neatly between small and midsized SUVs. Like the related Kia Sorento, it comes with a third-row seat, making it a compelling option for families. We already tested the regular Santa Fe with the 2.5-liter turbo four-cylinder with an 8-speed dual-clutch automatic. These are our first impressions of the Hybrid, which uses a 1.6-liter turbo four-cylinder hybrid that uses a six-speed automatic. What We Like The pairing of the six-speed automatic and hybrid drive give the SUV a better low-speed driving experience than the regular Santa Fe. The gas engine kicks in smoothly, and the gas/electric transitions are seamless. This is one of the easiest SUVs ever to get in or out of, thanks to its low floor. The…

SANTA FE HYBRID

HONDA’S NEW EV isn’t a clean-sheet design that originated deep within its headquarters. Rather, the Prologue is the result of a Honda-General Motors accord. This allows Honda to make use of GM’s Ultium batteries and the basic building blocks of GM’s electric vehicle architecture in designing and building the Prologue and the Acura ZDX. The Honda has an EPA-rated driving range of 296 miles for the front-drive version, and 273 and 281 miles for the all-wheel-drive versions. Here we take a first drive with the Prologue, just prior to starting our formal testing and evaluation process. What We Like We really appreciate that Honda used GM’s grippy knobs and physical buttons instead of putting some or all of the climate functions into the infotainment touchscreen. It’s easier to make adjustments…

THE 2024 LAND CRUISER arrives amid a surge of new and redesigned off-road-ready trucks and SUVs. But it is smaller, less expensive, and more fuel-efficient than the previous-generation version. This nostalgia-evoking SUV has heritage touches, like round headlamps on some trims, and “Toyota” spelled out prominently on the grille. Yet it’s a truly modern machine, offered solely with a turbocharged hybrid powertrain and Toyota’s latest active safety and driver assistance features. This initial review is of a Land Cruiser that we rented from Toyota. What We Like Thanks to the standard off - road equipment like locking differentials and crawl mode, the Land Cruiser scrambled up our rock hill course with ease, along with minimum wheelspin and impressive suspension articulation. Climate functions are all handled by buttons, the various drive…

THE 2024 RANGER has a wider bed, a more modern-looking interior, and broader availability of safety systems. But beyond its refined powertrain, little else makes the new Ranger a better choice than its competitors. Here we take a first look at the Ford Ranger, which we bought for our test program, while we accumulate break-in miles prior to starting our evaluations. What We Like The base 2.3-liter turbo engine carries over from the outgoing model. It takes off from a stop with nary a delay, and there’s good, accessible power available when you need it. Plus, it has a notably more cultured sound than competitors’ turbo-fours. Most shifts from the transmission are smooth, beyond a bumpy one-two upshift when you’re getting going. The driving position is pretty spacious for a…

THE SUBARU CROSSTREK delivers an excellent ride, very good fuel economy, and standard all-wheel drive in a practical and reasonably priced package. While the standard engine takes off abruptly from a stop, this initial burst is the quickest the Crosstrek ever feels. It took a pokey 10.1 seconds to go from 0 to 60 mph and became unpleasantly boomy when pushed. But its 29 mpg overall is commendable and the best among nonhybrid AWD SUVs. The optional 182-hp 2.5-liter engine is more powerful and quieter. The continuously variable transmission helps the Crosstrek’s efficiency, but it amplifies the raucous engine noise during any strong acceleration. The Crosstrek’s quick steering and minimal body roll through corners give it good handling in normal driving, but we wouldn’t go so far as to call…

THE RAV4 PRIME plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) transforms the driving experience of Toyota’s small RAV4 hybrid, giving it abundant power and a comfortable ride to go along with its fuel-economy benefits. As with all PHEVs, a fully charged Prime can travel solely on electric power for a short distance before the gas engine kicks in. In this case, it’s all-electric for an impressive 42 miles before it switches to hybrid mode, where it got 34 mpg overall in our tests. It can take about 2.5 hours to charge the battery on a 240-volt outlet (or 12 hours on 120 volts), thanks to the now-standard 6.6-kilowatt onboard charger. The Prime’s combined 302 hp makes it quick, with lush, effortless power; it scoots from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.3…

DON’T BE FOOLED by the Outback’s raised-wagon styling. It’s a comfortable, functional vehicle that’s well suited for daily commutes and weekend adventures. Its size and capabilities make it a viable midsized SUV alternative, and its elevated ground clearance and standard AWD mean it’s ready to take on light off-road duties. The Outback has a solid feel, with a ride so comfortable that it outshines some luxury SUVs. Handling is responsive and secure, and we were impressed with its performance in our accident avoidance maneuver. Buyers have a choice of two powertrains. While the base 182-hp, 2.5-liter four-cylinder does the job and gets good fuel economy, the engine becomes loud when tasked with providing extra speed. The more refined 2.4-liter turbo transforms the Outback, giving it effortless punch and a quieter…

HIGHLANDER HYBRID

THE HIGHLANDER HYBRID stands out among midsized three-row SUVs primarily for its stellar fuel economy. In our tests the Toyota returned 35 mpg overall, which is better than many compact SUVs. The 2.5-liter four-cylinder is paired with two electric motors, for a total of 243 hp. Unfortunately, under moderate-to-hard acceleration the CVT lets the engine speed increase disproportionately to actual power delivery, exacerbating its coarse sound. In our tests the hybrid’s stopping distances are worse than the regular model’s, taking 8 feet longer to stop on dry pavement and 10 more on wet. The Highlander’s ride is compliant and controlled. Handling is responsive and secure, and the Hybrid is a bit more agile than the nonhybrid model. It’s only when we pushed the Highlander to its limits on our track…

HIGHLANDER HYBRID

THE X3 IS one of the best-driving compact SUVs but also one of the more fuel-efficient ones, which is why it sits at the top of our Luxury Compact SUV ratings. Its turbo four-cylinder delivers ample, almost instantaneous acceleration, and the smooth and responsive eight-speed automatic shifts quickly. This powertrain helps make the X3 engaging to drive, yet at 24 mpg overall—on premium fuel—it is very efficient. Right away, you’ll notice that the X3’s handling is taut and agile, making it engaging and confidence-inspiring to drive. Although its ride quality skews to the firm side, the X3 does a good job soaking up ruts, bumps, and other road imperfections. One of the first things you notice about the X3 is how quiet and pampering the cabin is, and how supportive…

AFTER WE COMPLETED testing the X5 there was no debate: BMW can still build a great-handling vehicle that optimally balances comfort, agility, power delivery, and interior quality. We found the X5 to be the rare SUV that is both powerful and efficient. The six-cylinder has instantaneous response without a hint of hesitation from turbo lag, with 0-to-60-mph acceleration coming in at a thrilling 6 seconds. The eight-speed automatic shifts quickly and smoothly. Plus, the X5’s 23 mpg overall is tops for the class among nonhybrids. The driving experience is exemplary because the X5’s balanced suspension glides over bumps and ruts, delivering a composed ride with handling that gives drivers confidence. Braking performance is excellent, with short stops on both dry and wet surfaces. We really appreciated the whisper-quiet interior, which…

ONCE AUDI FITTED its Q7 with a turbocharged V6 engine, this premium three-row SUV gained a more refined driving experience to go along with its already adept handling. Other than a slight delay of power when accelerating out of a rolling stop, the engine and smooth-shifting eight-speed automatic work in seamless harmony. In our tests we got 20 mpg overall, the same result as with the old supercharged V6. However, the new powertrain is quieter and has a stronger midrange punch. Despite its size and weight, the Q7 is quite nimble through corners. It instills confidence through turns, thanks to accurate steering and restrained levels of body lean. The ride is firm and controlled, with the suspension filtering out most bumps well, helping keep the cabin quiet. That cabin exudes…

THE KIA EV6 is quick, nimble, and invigorating to drive, making it one of the best EVs we’ve tested. Thanks to a maximum 235-kilowatt acceptance rate, the EV6 can charge quickly at public DC fast chargers—about 60 miles in 10 minutes, we found. The 10.9-kW onboard charger makes for quicker at-home charging, taking about 7 hours to charge from near-empty. Our EV6 was able to go 277 miles in our 70-mph highway range test. With instantaneous application of its 320 hp, the Kia scooted from 0 to 60 mph in 4.7 seconds. Handling is taut and agile, thanks to the low-mounted battery pack and rear-wheel bias for power distribution. While it has quick steering, there’s a syrupy feel to it. The suspension is firm but soaks up bumps fairly well.…

AS THE FIRST mainstream three-row midsized electric SUV, the EV9 sets a high bar. It’s comfortable and super-roomy, and it has a robust driving range. With 379 hp from its two electric motors, acceleration is quick, effortless, and nearly silent. We sprinted from 0 to 60 mph in just 5.3 seconds. Our drivers also appreciated the ease with which the regenerative braking system can be customized by tapping one of the paddles behind the steering wheel. The 99.8-kWh long-range battery helped us go 285 miles in our 70-mph highway range test. The Kia can charge relatively quickly at home, thanks to its 10.9-kW onboard charger, but it will still take the big battery 14 hours to charge from empty. A 210-kW maximum acceptance rate makes for competitive charging times at…

NIRO PLUG-IN HYBRID

THE KIA NIRO plug-in hybrid electric vehicle (PHEV) is an impressive small hatchback that is both quicker and more fuel-efficient than the Niro Hybrid. After its EPA-estimated all-electric range of 33 miles runs out, it transitions to hybrid operation, where it returned 47 mpg in our testing, 2 mpg better than the Niro Hybrid. Total range is about 500 miles. We clocked the PHEV at 7.4 seconds in our 0 to 60 mph test. The powertrain seamlessly blends electric and gas power, and the transmission delivers smooth shifts. It takes 5.5 hours to charge the 11.1-kWh battery on a regular 120-volt household circuit, and 3 hours to charge using a 240-volt connection. While handling is responsive, and very secure when pushed, the car is not sporty to drive with verve.…

NIRO PLUG-IN HYBRID

WITH ITS LATEST redesign, the Accord Hybrid is among the best cars on the market, thanks to its roomy cabin, fuel-efficient powertrain, and easy-to-use controls. In our tests the four-cylinder engine and electric drive combined to return 40 mpg overall—good but 7 mpg less than the previous generation Hybrid. The higher-trim EX-L with 17-inch wheels gets 4 mpg more, according to the EPA. Still, this impressive powertrain is quite refined, seamlessly switching back and forth between electric and gas propulsion. We like the Honda’s eager handling feel through corners, with finely weighted steering and minimal body roll. The suspension shrugs off most bumps effectively, but the Sport Hybrid’s large tires allow pronounced bumps to punch through into the cabin in a noticeably firm fashion. The front-seat bottom cushion’s shape makes…

THANKS TO its well-built cabin, sharp handling, and remarkable fuel economy, the Audi A3 handily outscores its competitors. If you enjoy picking up the pace on a twisty two-lane, the A3 could be the car for you. Our testers raved about the responsive steering and taut suspension that guided them smoothly through corners. The A3’s strong tire grip also helped it achieve impressively short stopping distances at our track. However, our tested car’s optional Sport suspension delivered a ride skewing on the firm side. Still, we found it more forgiving and livable than its BMW and Mercedes-Benz competitors. The powertrain works well, delivering a quick 6.8-second 0 to 60 mph time while also returning a class-leading 31 mpg overall on regular gas. While most shifts are smooth and immediate, the…

THE 3 SERIES continues to be one of the best sports sedans available, thanks to a blend of sharp handling, a responsive drivetrain, comfortable seats, impeccable fit and finish, and good fuel economy. The drivetrain in our AWD tested car is smooth and punchy. The engine delivers plenty of propulsion, and the transmission shifts quickly and smoothly. It leaves from a stop without any turbo- or transmission-related delays, delivering more than enough get-up-and-go for any situation, highlighted by its dash from 0 to 60 mph in just 6.4 seconds. Even with its strong acceleration, the 330i returned 29 mpg overall on premium fuel in our testing, making it the most efficient luxury compact sedan in our tests. The BMW’s tied-down, composed attitude makes it a joy to steer through bends.…

THE ES is a rewarding choice for a road trip, thanks to its absorbent ride and indulgent interior, but buyers seeking the ultimate in fuel economy should turn to the ES300h. The hybrid powertrain, featuring a 2.5-liter four-cylinder hooked up to a continuously variable transmission, accelerates immediately from a stop because of its electric assist. Expect an impressive 42 mpg overall from this combination, which allows you to drive at low speeds on electric power alone. However, when merging into traffic or executing passing maneuvers on a two-lane road, the CVT allows the engine speed to dramatically increase, making it sound like it’s working hard. The result is a coarse soundtrack that’s incongruous with the level of performance the powertrain is putting out. Shoppers who are drawn to the ES…

VEHICLE RATINGS

THESE CHARTS PROVIDE a reference guide to the vehicles we have recently tested so you can see how they match up. In this issue we have ratings for 250 vehicles, organized by vehicle category and ranked by Overall Score, to provide you with a quick reference guide for shopping. ■ Recommended vehicles are those that meet CR’s stringent testing, reliability, and safety standards. To earn our recommendation, noted with a , vehicles must have a high Overall Score in their category. ■ The Green Choice designation, developed in collaboration with the EPA, indicates which 2024 cars, SUVs, and minivans are in the top 20 percent of the cleanest-emitting vehicles from their model year. These are identified with a . ■ Overall Score includes the vehicle’s performance in our road tests;…

VEHICLE RATINGS

VEHICLE REVIEWS

Behind the Description, Data, and Ratings 1 RECOMMENDED MODELS These vehicles must have performed well in our testing, have average or better reliability, and perform adequately if included in safety tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety or the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration. 2 MODEL-LINE OVERVIEW Base Price is the range of the manufacturer’s base suggested retail price without options or destination charge for all versions. An “E” indicates that the price is estimated. Models often come in various Body Styles and Trim Lines, which are versions that differ in standard equipment, available options, and price. Pickup trucks are listed by available cab configurations. Drive Wheels notes if the model is available with front-, rear-, all- (AWD), or four-wheel drive (4WD). Seating is the maximum number of…

VEHICLE REVIEWS

How to Read CR's Reliability Charts

These charts are based on owner data from our Annual Auto Surveys. The Overall Reliability rating indicates how many problems a model has had compared with the average problem rate for vehicles of the same model year. We derive this from CR members, who reported on any problems they had with their vehicles during the 12 months prior to the survey that were considered serious because of cost, failure, safety, or downtime. Our calculations give extra weight to the areas of engine, major; engine cooling; transmission, major; drive system, EV motor, and EV battery because they can be serious and expensive to repair. The reliability of a 2024 or early 2025 model is taken from the average of a model’s Overall Reliability for the newest three years, provided the vehicle…

How to Read CR's Reliability Charts

HOW THE RATINGS ARE CALCULATED

This chart shows the average rates of problems in each trouble spot by model year for the vehicles in CR’s Annual Auto Surveys. For example, about 1 percent of 2023 EVs had EV Charging problems, on average. The reliability chart on the left shows the Kia Niro EV scores a (much worse than average) because 3.7 percent of them had a problem in this area. For 2022 models, the average rate of In-Car Electronics problems among vehicles in our survey was 4 percent. Because no Niro EV owners reported a problem in this category, it scores (much better than average). Because high-mileage cars tend to encounter more problems than low-mileage cars, problem rates are standardized to minimize differences due to mileage. The 2023 models in our survey were generally less…

HOW THE RATINGS ARE CALCULATED

Acura Integra OVERALL SCORE Acura resurrected the Integra name for its entry-level four-door hatchback. It’s essentially an upscale version of the Honda Civic and is powered by a 200-hp, 1.5-liter turbo four-cylinder shared with the sporty Civic Si. Most versions have a continuously variable transmission, which dilutes the Integra’s sporting pretense; we much prefer the slick-shifting six-speed manual. The top version, the Type S, comes with a 320-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four paired only with the manual. Handling is responsive, but the ride is choppy and the car suffers from excessive road noise. The controls are simple but are barely differentiated from the Civic’s, and the same goes for much of the interior design and layout. As such, the Integra lacks the premium ambience of its entry-level luxury competitors. $31,800-$51,800 BASE…

BMW 2 Series OVERALL SCORE The 2 Series Coupe is a thoroughbred BMW using a more performance-oriented rear-wheel-drive platform than the 2 Series Gran Coupe’s. In 230i guise it has a 255-hp, turbo four-cylinder, while the M240i gets a 382-hp, turbo inline-six. Both come with rear- or all-wheel drive. The eight-speed automatic is smooth and quick. The 453-hp M2 can be had with a six-speed manual. Even with the base engine, the car pulls strongly and the engine sounds lovely, and it managed a commendable 31 mpg overall in our testing. Handling is agile, and the ride is taut yet refined. The cabin is nicely finished, and the front seats are comfortable, though the rear seat is tight. Recently, the infotainment system got a large, curved screen that serves as…

Cadillac CT4 OVERALL SCORE The Cadillac CT4 has the handling, braking, and steering prowess of a well-honed sports sedan. The standard engine is a responsive but not so refined 237-hp, 2.0-liter turbo four-cylinder, coupled to an eight-speed automatic. The sportier CT4-V gets a 325-hp, 2.7-liter turbo four-cylinder. The Blackwing version, with a 472-hp turbo V6, is a true track-ready rocket ship that can be had with a six-speed manual or a 10-speed automatic. Handling is agile, making the car fun to drive. The ride is taut yet mutes harsh impacts. The front seats are comfortable, but the rear is very cramped. Fit and finish is top notch. Highway-speed AEB is optional. GM’s Super Cruise active driving assistance system is available. $34,595-$61,495 BASE PRICE RANGE OVERVIEW BODY STYLES: sedan TRIM LINES:…

Dodge Durango OVERALL SCORE Spacious, quiet, and comfortable, the Durango impressively blends workhorse utility with lots of creature comforts. This three-row midsized SUV shares its platform with the previous-generation Jeep Grand Cherokee. Handling is responsive. The ride is composed and comfortable, making the Durango feel sophisticated and substantial. The slick eight-speed automatic helps with smooth and prompt power delivery. Most buyers will be satisfied with the V6 engine. The standard Uconnect 4 infotainment system has intuitive operation, while the optional Uconnect 5 system is more complex. Cargo room is generous, and the Durango can tow 1,000 to 2,000 pounds more than competitors. Limited visibility is a downside. AEB is optional, and pedestrian detection is not offered. $39,670-$95,995 BASE PRICE RANGE OVERVIEW BODY STYLES: 4-door SUV TRIM LINES: Citadel, GT, R/T,…

Fiat 500e OVERALL SCORE This quintessential minicar returned in 2024 as an EV-only model. The tiny EV retains the 500’s cheerful charm and small footprint, and is one of the very few low-price EVs available. It’s a stylish city runabout with a 141 mile range. That’s short by today’s standards but workable as an urban commuter. Home charging is relatively quick. DC fast charging in public places is limited to 85 kW and we saw a gain of 65 miles in 15 minutes. The ride is stiff and choppy and it’s not all that quiet even though there is no engine noise. Acceleration feels a bit tepid at times. Handling is nimble but not sporty. The controls are straightforward except for the pushbutton gear selector. The rear seat is very…

Genesis Electrified GV70 OVERALL SCORE The Electrified GV70 is built on the conventional GV70’s platform rather than using an EV-specific one. Still, it’s one of the nicest EVs you can buy, with vigorous acceleration, capable handling, a comfortable ride, and a quiet and pampering cabin. Unfortunately, its driving range is on the short side, covering just a modest 220 miles in our 70 mph highway range test. Home charging of the 77.4-kWh battery is on the quick side, thanks to a 10.9-kW onboard charger, and its 240-kW max acceptance rate at public DC fast chargers is also commendable. The front charging port can be awkward to access, though. The dual-motor drive system gives the GV70 EV standard AWD. Some controls are unintuitive and distracting, such as the infotainment controller knob…

Honda Accord OVERALL SCORE The Accord remains a sensible midsized sedan that is roomy, user-friendly, and fuel-efficient. The standard 1.5-liter turbo-four and CVT work smoothly and deliver adequate power. The 204-hp hybrid powertrain maximizes electric propulsion and mimics the shifting of a regular automatic. It managed a thrifty 40 mpg overall in our testing. The second-tier EX trim is well equipped with heated front seats and a sunroof. The ride is comfortable, and handling is responsive but not sporty. Rear-seat room is generous, and the trunk is large with a wide opening that makes the space easy to access. Controls are very easy to use in all the trim levels. It’s unfortunate that BSW and RCTW are not available on the base LX. The Hybrid’s reliability is above average, while…

Infiniti Q50 OVERALL SCORE The Q50 luxury sports sedan is available in rear- and allwheel drive. Its 300-hp turbo V6 engine is very punchy and, combined with the seven-speed automatic, makes the car quick. But fuel economy is a thirsty 22 mpg overall. Handling is quite nimble, and the ride is compliant. The cabin and back seat are relatively roomy, but the trunk is small, even for this class. Fit and finish comes up short, and the level of amenities is below the curve for a luxury model, showing this car’s age. Infiniti’s dual touchscreen infotainment system is slow and cumbersome to use. It requires multiple steps for simple tasks, which causes additional driver distraction. The Red Sport model comes with a 400-hp turbo V6. Unfortunately, pedestrian detection is not…

Jaguar E-Pace OVERALL SCORE The E-Pace is a stylish and nimble small luxury SUV powered by a 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder mated to a nine-speed automatic and all-wheel drive. Unfortunately, its 246 hp is delivered in an uneven fashion: It either accelerates with a sudden burst or feels lethargic and slow. Fuel economy of 21 mpg overall is abysmal, given its small size. Agile handling and sharp steering make the little Jaguar fun to drive, but it comes at the expense of a stiff ride that lets the passengers feel every bump and rut. The controls are cumbersome but manageable, and the touchscreen infotainment system has been updated with Jaguar’s latest Pivi Pro system. Rear and side visibility are challenging, thanks to thick roof pillars. Interior ambience is too ordinary and…

Kia Carnival OVERALL SCORE The Carnival minivan is refreshed for 2025, with updated styling, high-tech interior features, and an optional hybrid powertrain. It looks a bit more SUV-like, with a front that reminds of the Telluride and extends accent lighting across part of the grille. The standard digital instrument display can be upgraded to a 12.3-inch screen that blends with the 12.3-inch infotainment screen. The infotainment system advances to Kia’s latest technology, including multi-zone ’Hey Kia’ voice recognition. Other available features include a color head-up display and a video rear-view mirror--by feeding the mirror display with a camera behind the vehicle, it can provide a view without interference from headrests and passengers. The standard engine is a 287-hp V6 with an 8-speed automatic, but new for 2025 is a 242-hp…

Land Rover Defender OVERALL SCORE The latest version of Land Rover’s classic, go-anywhere SUV is refined and quick. But frustrating controls and unimpressive fuel economy count against it. The Defender comes with a choice of a turbocharged four- or six-cylinder engine or a supercharged V8. Body styles include two- and four-door versions, as well as a long-wheelbase version. Five-, seven-, and eight-passenger seating configurations are available. The various off-road-ready features include selectable modes to help traverse a variety of terrains. We found acceleration plentiful with the 110 model powered by the turbo six-cylinder, but it managed just 18 mpg overall. The ride is steady but firm, and handling is a bit ponderous. The seats are very comfortable, but the infotainment system is slow and distracting to use. $56,400-$118,600 BASE PRICE…

Maserati Grecale OVERALL SCORE The Grecale SUV is positioned between the Levante and its Stellantis cousin, the Alfa Romeo Stelvio. Based on the Stelvio, the Grecale combines elegance, athleticism, and performance. Even with the base 296-hp, 2.0-liter turbocharged four-cylinder engine, the Grecale feels quick and the sonorous exhaust sound adds to its character. The taut suspension makes this SUV agile and stable in corners. The ride has an underlying firmness, but it’s steady and composed. The cabin is luxurious, with suede, matte wood, and chrome touches, and the trademark clock is prominent. But many of the controls are distracting to use, in particular the unintuitive push-button gear selector and the ridiculously large column-mounted paddle shifters, which get in the way of the turn-signal stalk. BSW and RCTW are optional. $68,500-$108,000…

Nissan Altima OVERALL SCORE Despite a mild freshening in 2023 that added more standard active safety features, the Altima is a rather unremarkable midsized sedan. It delivers a roomy cabin, good fuel economy, user-friendly controls, and a large trunk. But the driving experience falls short when it comes to handling agility, and the seemingly pliant ride isn’t adept at absorbing all types of bumps. The standard 2.5-liter engine provides decent acceleration, and the car gets a commendable 31 mpg overall. All-wheel drive is available, as is a more powerful 2.0-liter turbo engine. The car is relatively quiet, the cabin is roomy, and the rear seat is very generous. But the Altima’s low ride height can make it a little challenging to get in and out. $26,370-$36,070 BASE PRICE RANGE OVERVIEW…

Polestar 2 OVERALL SCORE The Polestar 2 is a tall hatchback from Volvo’s electric-vehicle sub-brand. It’s based on the XC40 SUV. Its 78-kilowatt-hour battery has an EPA-rated range of 276 miles for the dual-motor all-wheel-drive version, which is a recent improvement over the original 2. A less expensive single-motor version with an EPA-rated range of 320 miles is also available. It takes over 10 hours to charge the battery from near-empty. The Polestar 2 is quick and handles nimbly, but the ride is very stiff and choppy. The interior is drab and suffers from a cramped driving position and a tight back seat. At least the car’s hatchback layout aids cargo-carrying versatility. The Google-based infotainment system is extremely distracting, but a recent software update that finally added Apple CarPlay helps…

Ram 1500 OVERALL SCORE The freshened Ram pickup truck comes with a base engine that’s a carryover 3.6-liter V6. The Hemi V8 is gone and is replaced by a turbocharged 3.0-liter inline-six engine with 420-hp. High-end versions get a high-output version of this engine with 540-hp. The smooth eight-speed automatic transmission remains. A large 12-inch infotainment screen is optional. In late 2024 a semi-electric 1500 Ramcharger equipped with a gas engine as an onboard generator will debut. The Ramcharger blazes its own trail, being an electric vehicle with a range extender gas engine. It uses the onboard V6 that can recharge its 92-kWh battery on the run, much like the departed Chevrolet Volt extended-range EV, giving the Ramcharger a targeted 690-mile range. Of course, that range will lessen when hauling…

Subaru Ascent OVERALL SCORE The Ascent is a very functional, easy-to-live-with three-row midsized SUV. Its turbocharged four-cylinder engine delivers ample power in daily driving and gets 22 mpg overall. The jumpy initial takeoff takes some getting used to, however. The Ascent’s plush ride is steady and controlled, and the suspension does an excellent job mopping up bumps. Handling agility is not an Ascent strength: The steering is vague and the body leans noticeably when pushed through corners, but it proved ultimately secure at its handling limits around our track. The cabin is quiet, and the second-row captain’s chairs are roomy and comfortable. Even the third row is usable for shorter trips. Controls are very straightforward. BSW and RCTW are optional. $34,395-$48,695 BASE PRICE RANGE OVERVIEW BODY STYLES: 4-door SUV TRIM…

Tesla Cybertruck OVERALL SCORE The all-electric Cybertruck is a radical new take on pickups, with a polarizing, angular design and paintless alloy body panels. The spartan, five-passenger cabin has a large center screen, cup holders, a center armrest, and little else. The roof is almost all glass. The bed measures 6 feet long and 4 feet wide, and it can haul a 4x8-foot plywood sheet with the tailgate down. For the first production year, there are two versions: A midlevel, all-wheel-drive truck with 600 hp and 340 miles of driving range, and a Cyberbeast with 840 hp and 320 miles of range. Both have a 11,000-pound maximum towing capacity and an available bed-mounted range extender that can add more than 100 miles. An adaptive air suspension can raise and lower…

Volkswagen Atlas OVERALL SCORE For 2024, the Atlas has been freshened and the V6 engine has been discontinued. The 269-hp, 2.0-liter turbo-four is surprisingly punchy but fuel economy remains the same as the old V6 at 20 mpg overall in our testing. The freshening also brings an electronic gear selector and confusing, distracting controls. Otherwise, the Atlas is still a functional and very roomy competitor among midsized three-row SUVs. The ride is reasonably comfortable but not a standout. Handling is responsive and secure and braking performance is strong. The cabin is very accommodating with a third-row seat that truly fits adults, along with generous cargo capacity. A unique, effortlessly articulating second row allows a clear access path to the third row. Fit and finish is above the class’s standards. The…

ROAD-TEST HIGHLIGHTS

WE CONDUCT MORE than 50 objective tests and subjective evaluations on every vehicle we purchase. These charts list the results from our testing, and the information provided allows you to easily compare models. Here's an explanation of the criteria in the charts: ■ Make + Model specifies the make, model, and trim version of the vehicle Consumer Reports bought and tested. We often test multiple versions of the same model, and each can yield different results depending on the trim and equipment level, body style, and powertrain type. ■ Trans. indicates the transmission type and number of speeds. “Auto” is automatic; “CVT,” continuously variable transmission; “Man,” manual; “Seq,” sequential; and “1-spd. dir.,” one-speed direct drive. ■ HP is the horsepower of the engine or motor tested. ■ Engine notes displacement,…

ROAD-TEST HIGHLIGHTS

SAFETY FEATURES & CRASH-TEST RATINGS

AS SAFETY TECHNOLOGY progresses, we’ve been evaluating some active safety features in our test program. As part of CR’s Overall Score, we give additional consideration to certain active safety features—when standard equipment on all trim levels of a model—that can help drivers avoid an accident or lessen the crash impact. In addition to crash test ratings from the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) conducts additional crash tests that get more difficult over time. For example, the side crash test now involves a higher speed and a heavier barrier than in prior years. Overall, newly introduced vehicles that were designed with these test in mind have performed much better than older models. When assessing safety, it’s important to compare vehicles within the same…

SAFETY FEATURES & CRASH-TEST RATINGS

SAFETY SYSTEMS EXPLAINED

ACTIVE SAFETY AND driver assistance features are common on new vehicles, but the terminology used by automakers to describe them varies widely, often seeming to prioritize marketing over meaning. That’s why CR worked with AAA, J.D. Power, the National Safety Council, PAVE, and SAE International to come up with clear, standardized naming conventions to describe what these systems do. The common naming outlined below is simple, specific, consistent, and designed to reduce driver and buyer confusion. The Department of Transportation has endorsed this effort to bring about standardized names for common active safety features. These names are what we use in CR’s content, and the list is continually refined as new systems are developed. No matter what they’re called, it is important to remember that these systems are designed to…

VEHICLE DIMENSIONS

Exterior Dimensions and Weight ■ Length, width, height, and wheelbase data come from the vehicle's manufacturer. ■ Weight of tested vehicles is measured on our scales. Cargo ■ Max. load is the maximum weight of the combination of passengers and cargo the vehicle can safely carry. This figure is specified by the manufacturer or calculated based on the difference between our test vehicle’s weight and the manufacturer’s specified gross weight. ■ Cargo volume for wagons, minivans, and sport-utility vehicles is our measurement conducted with the rear seats folded. We use an adjustable pipe frame box and enlarge it until it no longer fits through the rear hatch. We then measure the volume of the box. Data for cars come from the federal government. ■ Towing capacity is the maximum for…

VEHICLE DIMENSIONS

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